Soludo Approves ₦15 Million for Mass Burial of 43 Victims in Anambra Communal Clash
Governor Charles Soludo of Anambra State has approved the sum of ₦15 million to support the mass burial of 43 residents of Ogwuaniocha community in Ogbaru Local Government Area, who tragically lost their lives during a violent communal crisis in November 2021.
The cheque was officially presented on Thursday to Honourable Vitalis Ekweanua, President General of Ogwuaniocha Progressive Association, by the State Commissioner for Petroleum and Mineral Resources, Barr. Anthony Ifeanya, on behalf of the Governor.
While presenting the funds, Barr. Ifeanya commended the community for taking meaningful steps towards restoring peace and stability.
He assured them of the government’s commitment to rebuilding and supporting Ogwuaniocha, emphasizing that the state will not neglect its obligations to any part of Anambra,especially host communities like theirs.
He also hinted at the Governor’s readiness to launch developmental projects in the area, pledging that Ogwuaniocha would receive its fair share of infrastructural investments under his watch.
In response, Honourable Ekweanua expressed deep appreciation to Governor Soludo for the financial support, revealing that the mass burial was conducted on April 20, 2025, using both community-raised funds and the state’s assistance.
However, Ekweanua painted a grim picture of the community’s current state. He described Ogwuaniocha as “completely deserted,” with the aftermath of the crisis still palpable.
“All our schools—both primary and secondary—have been destroyed. Most homes, including mine, were razed during the conflict. About 90 percent of the buildings are beyond repair,” he said.
He further lamented the collapse of local healthcare services and the environmental damage allegedly caused by an oil company operating in the area.
“Since the company started drilling, farming and fishing which is our main livelihoods have stopped due to oil spillage. No compensation has been paid to the people,” he added.
Ekweanua also reminded the state of their still-missing traditional ruler, who was abducted during the unrest and has not been found to date.
Appealing for urgent government intervention, he called on Governor Soludo to rebuild the destroyed public infrastructure, including a vital bridge across the Ulasi River to connect Umunankwo and Ihiala Local Government Area.
Despite the challenges, Ekweanua voiced strong support for the Governor, describing him as a “God-sent leader” and pledged the community’s full backing in the forthcoming November 8, 2025 governorship election.
“If Governor Soludo stands for re-election, Ogwuaniocha will support him 100 percent. We believe in his vision and trust that he will help us recover and rebuild,” he added.
